GPSMAP 78 series

owners manual

for use with the GPSMAP 78, GPSMAP

78S, and GPSMAP 78Sc
 2010 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc. Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Garmin Corporation
1200 East 151st Street, Liberty House, No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, Hounsdown Business Park, Sijhih, Taipei County,
USA Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9LR UK Taiwan
Tel. (913) 397.8200 or Tel. +44 (0) 870.8501241 (outside the UK) Tel. 886/2.2642.9199
(800) 800.1020 0808 2380000 (within the UK) Fax 886/2.2642.9099
Fax (913) 397.8282 Fax +44 (0) 870.8501251

All rights reserved. Except as expressly provided Garmin, BlueChart, City Navigator, and
herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or
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updates and supplemental information concerning
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 Table of Contents
Getting Started..................... 1
Manual Conventions................... 1
Device Overview........................ 2
Battery Information..................... 3
Installing the Batteries................ 3
Turning the Device On or Off...... 3
Acquiring Satellite Signals.......... 4
Buttons....................................... 4
Navigating with Waypoints
and Routes........................... 6
Waypoints................................... 6
Routes........................................ 7
Additional Maps.......................... 9
Tracks................................. 10
About Tracks............................ 10
Navigating a Saved Track.........11
Using the Main Pages....... 12
Customizing the Data Fields.... 12
Restoring Default Page
Settings.................................. 12
Map.......................................... 12
Compass.................................. 14
Using the Compass.................. 15
Using Sight N Go..................... 15
Elevation Plot........................... 16
Opening the Main Menu........... 17
Trip Computer........................... 18
Main Menu Features and
Settings.............................. 19
Geocaches............................... 19
Share Wirelessly...................... 19
Proximity Alarms....................... 20
Profile Change.......................... 20
Area Calculation....................... 20
Satellite..................................... 21
Additional Main Menu Tools...... 21
Customizing Your Device. 23
Customizing Data Fields.......... 23
Data Field Options.................... 23
System Settings....................... 27
Display Settings........................ 28
Setting Up Tones...................... 28
Marine Settings........................ 28
Setting up Marine Alarms......... 29
Resetting Data.......................... 30
Changing the Page
Sequence............................... 30
Customizing the Unit
Settings.................................. 31
Time Settings............................ 31
Position Format Settings.......... 31
Altimeter Settings..................... 32
Geocache Settings................... 33
Routing Settings....................... 33
Fitness...................................... 34
Profiles..................................... 34
Appendix............................ 35
Registering Your Device........... 35
Updating the Software.............. 35
Viewing Important Device
Information............................. 35
Contacting Garmin Product
Support.................................. 35
Using the Backlight................... 36
Specifications........................... 36
Maximizing Battery Life............ 37
About the Batteries................... 38
Buying Optional Accessories.... 38
Using Optional Fitness
Accessories............................ 39
Data Management.................... 40
Attaching the Wrist Strap.......... 43
Caring for the Device................ 44
Troubleshooting........................ 45
Index................................... 47
 Getting Started

Getting Started Manual Conventions

When you are instructed to press
warning something, use the buttons on the unit.
See the Important Safety and Product Use the Rocker to select something
Information guide in the product in a list, and then press ENTER. See
box for product warnings and other page 5.
important information.
The small arrows (>) used in the text
When using your device the first time, indicate that you should select a series
you should complete the following of items in order, for example, Select
tasks to set up the device and get to Delete > Yes.
know the basic features.
1. Install the batteries (page 3).
2. Turn on the device (page 3).
3. Acquire satellites (page 4).
4. Mark a waypoint (page 6).
5. Navigate a route (page 8).
6. Record a track (page 10).
7. Calibrate the compass (page 14).

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 1

Getting Started

Device Overview

Internal MCX connector for

antenna external GPS antenna
(under weather cap) Serial port
(under weather
cap)

mini-USB port
Buttons (under weather
cap)

Battery
Display compartment

microSD
card slot
(under
batteries)

2 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Getting Started

Battery Information Turning the Device On or

The device operates on two AA Off
batteries. Use alkaline, NiMH, or Press and hold .
lithium batteries. Use precharged
NiMH or lithium batteries for best Setting Your Language
results (page 38). 1. Turn on the unit.
2. Use the Rocker to select a
Installing the Batteries language.
1. Slide the latch on the back of the
device, and remove the battery
cover.
2. Insert the batteries, observing
polarity.

3. Replace the battery cover.

For best results, after you install new
batteries, update the battery type in the
system settings (page 37).

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 3

Getting Started

Acquiring Satellite Buttons

Signals
It may take 30 to 60 seconds to acquire
signals.
1. Go outdoors to an open area.
2. If necessary, turn on the device.
3. Wait while the device searches for
satellites.
A question mark flashes while the
Button Description
device determines your location.
FIND/MOB Press FIND to open the
4. Quickly press to open the search menu.
backlight status page. Press and hold MOB
The GPS bars indicate satellite (man overboard function)
to store your current
strength. When the bars are green, the location as a waypoint
device has acquired satellite signals. and begin navigation to
that point.

Press and hold to

turn the device on and
off.
Quickly press to
open the backlight status
page.

4 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Getting Started

QUIT Press QUIT to cancel Rocker Press up, down, right,

or return to the previous and left to select menu
menu or page. options and to move the
map cursor.
PAGE Press PAGE to scroll
through the main pages + Press + to zoom in on
(page 12). the map.
MENU Press MENU to open
the options menu for the - Press - to zoom out on
page that is currently the map.
open.
Press MENU twice to
open the main menu
(from any page).
ENTER/ Press ENTER to select
MARK options and acknowledge
messages.
Press and hold MARK
to save your current
location as a waypoint.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 5

Navigating with Waypoints and Routes

Navigating with Editing a Waypoint

Before you can edit a waypoint, you
Waypoints and Routes must create a waypoint.

Waypoints 1. From the main menu, select

Waypoint Manager.
Waypoints are locations you record and
store in the device. 2. Select a waypoint.
3. Select an attribute (such as the
Creating Waypoints name or location).
1. From any page, press and hold
4. Enter the new information.
MARK.
5. Select Done.
2. Select Done.
Deleting a Waypoint
Navigating to a Waypoint Using
1. From the main menu, select
the Search Menu
Waypoint Manager.
You can use the search menu to quickly
find waypoints, tracks, routes, and 2. Select a waypoint.
coordinates that you have saved. 3. Press Menu.
1. From any page, press FIND. 4. Select Delete.
2. Select Waypoints.
3. Select a waypoint.
4. Select Go.

6 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Navigating with Waypoints and Routes

Routes Editing the Name of a Route

A route is a sequence of waypoints that 1. From the main menu, select Route
leads you to your final destination. Planner.
2. Select a route.
Creating a Route 3. Select Change Name.
1. From the main menu, select Route
Planner > Create Route > Select 4. Enter the new name.
First Point. 5. Select Done.
2. Select a category. Editing a Route
3. Select the first point in the route. 1. From the main menu, select Route
4. Select Use. Planner.
5. Select Select Next Point. 2. Select a route.
6. Repeat steps 25 until the route is 3. Select Edit Route.
complete. 4. Select a point.
A route must contain at least two 5. Select an option:
points. Reviewshows the point on
7. Press quit to save the route. the map.
Move Down (or Up)changes
the order of the point on the
route.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 7

Navigating with Waypoints and Routes
Insertadds an additional 3. Select a route.
point on the route. 4. Select Go.
The additional point is inserted
Viewing the Active Route
before the point you are editing.
1. From the main menu, select Active
Removeremoves the point Route.
from the route.
2. Select a point in the route to view
Viewing a Route on the Map additional details.
1. From the main menu, select Route
Stopping Navigation of a Route
Planner.
1. From any page, press FIND.
2. Select a route.
2. Select Stop Navigation.
3. Select View Map.
Navigating a Reverse Route
Deleting a Route 1. From the main menu, select Route
1. From the main menu, select Route Planner.
Planner.
2. Select a route.
2. Select a route.
3. Select Reverse Route.
3. Select Delete Route.
4. Select the route again.
Navigating a Route 5. Select View Map.
1. Press FIND.
6. Select Go.
2. Select Routes.

8 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Navigating with Waypoints and Routes

Additional Maps 6. Enter the house number.

To purchase preloaded detailed map 7. Enter the street.
data cards, go to http://buy.garmin.com 8. Select Go.
or contact your Garmin dealer.
Finding Marine Services
Finding an Address with City 1. Press FIND.
Navigator 2. Select Marine Services.
You can use optional City Navigator
3. Select a category.
maps to search for addresses, cities,
and other locations. The detailed maps 4. Select a destination.
contain millions of points of interest, 5. Select Go.
such as restaurants, hotels, and auto
services.
1. Press FIND.
2. Select Addresses.
3. Enter the country.
4. Enter the city or postal code.
NOTE: Not all map data provides
postal code searching.
5. Select the city.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 9

Tracks
Tracks
About Tracks
Your Garmin device records a track log
while you are moving. You can save
these tracks and navigate to them later.
You can view archived or loaded tracks
by selecting Track Manager from the
main menu.
Managing Track Log Recording
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Tracks > Track Log.
2. Select Record, Do Not Show or
Record, Show On Map.
If you select Record, Show On
Map, a line on the map indicates
your track.
3. Select Record Method.
10 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
4. Select an option:
Distancerecords tracks at a
specified distance.
Timerecords tracks at a
specified time.
Autorecords tracks at a
variable rate to create an
optimum representation of your
tracks.
5. Select Recording Interval.
6. Select an option to record tracks
more or less often.
NOTE: Using the Most Often
interval provides the most track
detail and fills up the device
memory quicker.

Viewing the Current Track
The track being recorded is called the
current track.
1. From the main menu, select Track
Manager > Current Track.
2. Select an option:
View Mapshows the current
track on the map.
Elevation Plotshows the
elevation plot (page 16) for the
current track.
Saving the Current Track
1. From the main menu, select Track
Manager > Current Track.
2. Select what you want to save:
Save Tracksaves the entire
active track.
Save Portionallows you to
select a portion of the current
track to save.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 11
Tracks
Clearing the Current Track
From the main menu, select Setup
> Reset > Clear Current Track >
Yes.
Deleting a Track
1. From the main menu, select Track
Manager.
2. Select a track.
3. Select Delete > Yes.
Navigating a Saved Track
You must record and save a track
(page 11) before you can navigate
using it.
1. Press FIND.
2. Select Tracks.
3. Select a saved track.
4. Select Go.
Using the Main Pages

Using the Main Pages Map

The position icon represents your
The information needed to operate this
location on the map. As you travel,
device is found on the following pages:
the position icon moves and leaves a
map, compass, main menu, and trip
track log (trail). Waypoint names and
computer.
symbols also appear on the map.
Customizing the Data Changing the Map Orientation
Fields 1. From the map, press MENU.
You can customize the data fields that 2. Select Setup Map > Orientation.
appear on the main pages. For data 3. Select an orientation:
field descriptions, see page 23.
Select North Up to show north
1. From a main page, press meNu. at the top of the page.
2. Select Change Data Fields. Select Track Up to show your
3. Select a data field. current direction of travel at the
top of the page.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Select Automotive Mode to
Restoring Default Page show a perspective view.
Settings
1. From a main page, press meNu.
2. Select Restore Defaults.
3. Press enter.
12 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

Measuring Distance
You can move the cursor around the
map to measure distance from the
current location.
1. From the map, press MENU.
2. Select Measure Distance.
The device automatically begins
measuring from your current
location.
3. Move the cursor to a point you
want to measure to.
The distance appears at the top of
the page.
4. Press quit to stop measuring.
Map Setup Options
From the map, press menu, and
select Setup Map.
Map Orientationallows you to
select how the map is displayed
(page 12).
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 13
Using the Main Pages
Guidance Textallows you to
select when to show guidance text
on the map.
Advanced Map Setup
Auto Zoomautomatically
selects the appropriate zoom
level for optimal use on your
map. When Off is selected, you
must zoom in or out manually.
Zoom Levelsmap items
draw or appear at or below the
selected zoom level.
Text Sizeallows you to select
the text size for map items.
Detailallows you to select the
amount of map data displayed
on the device.
note: Higher detail settings
may cause the map to redraw
slowly.
Shaded Reliefshows detail relief
on the map (if available) or turns
off shading.
Using the Main Pages
Map Informationallows you to
enable or disable the maps currently
loaded on the device. To purchase
additional maps, see page 38.
Compass
When navigating to a destination,
the bearing pointer points to your
destination, regardless of the direction
you are moving. When the bearing
pointer points toward the top of the
electronic compass, you are traveling
directly toward your destination. If
it points any other direction, turn
toward that direction until the arrow is
pointing toward the top of the compass.
14 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
Calibrating the Compass
notice
Calibrate the electronic compass
outdoors. Do not stand near objects that
influence magnetic fields, such as cars,
buildings, or overhead power lines.
note: The three-axis compass is
available only with the GPSMAP 78S
and GPSMAP 78Sc.
You should calibrate the compass after
moving long distances, experiencing
temperature changes, or changing the
batteries.
1. From the compass, press MENU.
2. Select Calibrate Compass > Start.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Using the Compass
You can use the compass to navigate an
active route.
1. Press page.
2. Hold the device level.
3. Follow the bearing pointer to
your destination.
Using Sight N Go
NOTE: Sight N Go is available only
with the GPSMAP 78S and GPSMAP
78Sc.
You can point the device at an object in
the distance, such as a lighthouse, lock
in the direction, and then navigate to
the object.
1. From the main menu, select Sight
N Go.
2. Point the device at an object.
3. Select Lock Direction > Set
Course.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 15
Using the Main Pages
4. Use the compass to navigate to the
object.
Compass Setup Options
From the compass, press menu, and
select Setup Heading.
Displayshows the type of
directional heading on the compass:
Directional Letterssets the
compass reading to directional
letters (N, S, E, W).
Numeric Degreessets the
compass reading to degrees
(0359).
Milssets the compass reading
to mils (0 mils6399 mils).
North Referencesets the north
reference of the compass:
Truesets true north as the
heading reference.
Magneticautomatically sets
the magnetic declination for
your location.
Using the Main Pages
Gridsets grid north as the
heading reference (0).
Usersets the magnetic
variation value.
Go To Line/Pointerallows
you to select how the course is
displayed.
Bearing (Small/Large) indicates
the direction to your destination.
Course indicates your
relationship to a course line
leading to a destination.
Compassallows you to switch
from an electronic compass to
a GPS compass when you are
traveling at a higher rate of speed
for a set period of time, or turns the
compass off.
Select To Beginstarts the
compass calibration (page 14).
Elevation Plot
note: The elevation plot page is
available only with the GPSMAP 78S
and GPSMAP 78Sc.
Calibrating the Barometric
Altimeter
You can manually calibrate the
barometric altimeter if you know
the correct elevation or the correct
pressure.
1. From the elevation plot, press
menu.
2. Select Calibrate Altimeter.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

16 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual


Elevation Plot Setup Options
From the elevation plot, press menu.
Change Plot Typesets the type
of data shown on the elevation plot:
Elevation/Timerecords
elevation changes over a period
of time.
Elevation/Distancerecords
elevation changes over a
distance.
Barometric Pressurerecords
barometric pressure over a
period of time.
Ambient Pressurerecords
ambient pressure changes over a
period of time.
Adjust Zoom Rangesadjusts
the zoom ranges shown on the
elevation plot page.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 17
Using the Main Pages
Resetresets the elevation plot
data:
Reset Trip Dataresets all
trip data.
Delete All Waypointsdeletes
all saved waypoints.
Clear Current Trackdeletes
the track log.
Restore Defaultsrestores the
device to factory settings.
Calibrate Altimetersee page 16.
Opening the Main Menu
The main menu gives you access to
setup screens including waypoints,
tracks, and routes. See page 19 for
main menu settings pages.
From any page, press MENU
twice.
Using the Main Pages

Trip Computer Change Dashboardchanges the

The trip computer displays your current theme and information displayed on
speed, average speed, maximum the dashboard.
speed, trip odometer, and other helpful note: Your customized settings
statistics. are remembered by the dashboard,
and will not be lost when you
Trip Computer Setup Options change profiles (page 20).
From the trip computer, press menu.
Resetresets all the trip
computer values to zero. For
accurate information, reset the trip
information before beginning a trip.
Big Numberschanges the size
of the numbers shown on the trip
computer page.

18 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual


Main Menu Features
and Settings
Geocaches
Geocaching is a type of treasure
hunting, in which geocachers seek
hidden treasures using GPS coordinates
posted on the Internet by those hiding
the geocache.
Downloading Geocaches
1. Register your device (page 35).
2. Connect your device to your
computer (page 40).
3. Go to www.garmin.com/products
/communicator.
4. Download the Garmin
Communicator plug in.
5. Go to www.garmin.com/geocache.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions
to download geocaches to your
device.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 19
Main Menu Features and Settings
Navigating to a Geocache
1. From the main menu, select
Geocaches.
2. Select Find a Geocache.
3. Select a geocache.
4. Select Go.
Share Wirelessly
note: The share wirelessly feature is
available only with the GPSMAP 78S
and GPSMAP 78Sc.
Your device can send or receive data
when connected to another compatible
device. You must be within 10 feet
(3 m) of the compatible Garmin device.
Sending and Receiving Data
1. From the main menu, select Share
Wirelessly.
2. Select Send or Receive.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Main Menu Features and Settings
Proximity Alarms
Proximity alarms alert you when you
are approaching a predetermined area.
Setting a Proximity Alarm
1. From the main menu, select
Proximity Alarms.
2. Select Create New.
3. Select a category.
4. Select a point.
5. Select Use.
6. Enter a radius.
7. Select Done.
Profile Change
When you are using a profile and you
change settings such as data fields,
units of measurement, or position
settings, they are saved automatically
as part of the profile you are using.
For more information about
customizing your profile, see page 34.
20 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
Setting a Profile
1. From the main menu, select Profile
Change.
Your current profile is indicated on
the page.
2. Select a profile.
Area Calculation
Calculating the Size of an Area
1. From the main menu, select Area
Calculation > Start.
2. Walk around the perimeter of the
area you want to calculate.
3. Select Calculate when finished.
After you calculate the area, you can
save the track to your device and
change the unit of measure.

Satellite
The satellite page shows your current
location, GPS accuracy, satellite
locations, and signal strength.
Satellite Settings
From the satellite page, press menu.
Use With GPS Onallows you to
turn the GPS on and off.
Track Upindicates whether
satellites are shown with rings
oriented with North toward the top
of the screen or oriented with your
current track toward the top of the
screen.
Single Colorallows you to
select whether the satellite page is
displayed in multicolor or single
color.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 21
Main Menu Features and Settings
Set Location On Mapallows
you to mark your current location
on the map. This option is available
only when you turn off GPS. You
can use this location to create routes
or search for saved locations.
AutoLocate Positioncalculates
your GPS position using the
Garmin AutoLocate feature.
Additional Main Menu
Tools
Calendardisplays a calendar.
Calculatordisplays a calculator.
Sun and Moondisplays sunrise
and sunset times along with the
moon phase.
Main Menu Features and Settings
Alarm Clocksets an audible
alarm. If you are not currently using
the device, you can set the device to
turn on at a specific time.
Hunt and Fishdisplays the
predicted best dates and times for
hunting and fishing at your current
location.
Stopwatchallows you to use a
timer, mark a lap, and time laps.
Waypoint Averagingallows you
to refine a waypoint location with
multiple samples to achieve the
most-accurate location possible.

22 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Customizing Your Device

Customizing Your Data Field Description

Device **Ambient
Pressure
The uncalibrated
environmental
pressure.
Customizing Data Fields **Ascent - The average vertical
Average distance of ascent.
You can customize the data fields
displayed on each main page. **Ascent - The maximum ascent
Maximum rate in feet/meters per
1. From a main page, press meNu. minute.
**Ascent - Total The total elevation
2. Select Change Data Fields. distance ascended.
3. Select a data field. **Barometer The calibrated current
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. pressure.
Battery Level The remaining battery
Data Field Options power.
** Available only with the Bearing The direction from your
GPSMAP 78S and GPSMAP 78Sc. current location to a
destination.
**Cadence Revolutions of the
Data Field Description (cadence crank arm or strides
Accuracy of GPS The margin of error for accessory per minute.
your exact location. required)
For example, your Course The direction from your
GPS location is starting location to a
accurate to within destination.
+/- 12 feet.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 23

Customizing Your Device
Data Field Description Data Field Description
Depth The depth of the water. ETA at Destination The estimated time of
Requires a connection day you will reach your
to a NMEA 0183 final destination.
depth-capable device ETA at Next The estimated time of
to acquire data day you will reach the
(page 27). next waypoint on the
**Descent The average vertical route.
- Average distance of descent. Glide Ratio The ratio of horizontal
**Descent The maximum descent distance traveled to
- Maximum rate in feet/meter per the change in vertical
minute. distance.
**Descent - Total The total elevation Glide Ratio To The glide ratio required
distance descended. Dest. to descend from
Distance to Dest. The distance to your your current position
final destination. and elevation to the
destination elevation.
Distance to Next The remaining
distance to the next GPS Signal The strength of the
waypoint on the route. Strength GPS signal.
Elevation The altitude of your Heading The direction you are
current location above moving.
or below sea level. **Heart Rate Your heart rate in beats
**Elevation The highest elevation (heart rate monitor per minute (bpm).
- Maximum reached. required)
**Elevation The lowest elevation
- Minimum reached.

24 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Customizing Your Device
Data Field Description Data Field Description
Location (lat/lon) Displays the current Speed - Maximum The maximum speed
position in the default reached since last
position format reset.
regardless of the Speed - Moving The average speed
selected settings. . Avg. of the device while
Location Displays the current moving since last
(selected) position in the selected reset.
position format. Speed - Overall Your average speed
Odometer A running tally of Avg. since last reset.
distance traveled for Sunrise The time of sunrise
all trips. based on your GPS
Off Course The distance to the left position.
or the right by which Sunset The time of sunset
you have strayed from based on your GPS
the original path of position.
travel.
Temperature The temperature of
Pointer The data field arrow - Water the water. Requires a
points in the direction connection to a NMEA
of the next waypoint 0183 temperature-
or turn. capable device to
Speed The current rate of acquire data (page 27).
speed at which you Time of Day The current time of
are moving since last day based on your
reset. time settings (format,
time zone, and daylight
saving time).

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 25

Customizing Your Device
Data Field Description Data Field Description
Time to The estimated time Turn The angle of difference
Destination needed to reach your (in degrees) between
final destination. the bearing to your
Time to Next The estimated time destination and your
needed until you reach current course. L
the next waypoint on means turn left. R
the route. means turn right.
To Course The direction in which Velocity Made The speed at which
you must move to Good you are closing on a
return to the route. destination along a
route.
Trip Odometer A running tally of the
distance traveled since Vert. Speed to The measurement of
the last reset. Dest. your rate of ascent
or descent to a
Trip Time - Moving A running tally of time predetermined altitude.
since the last reset.
Vertical Speed Your rate of altitude
Trip Time The time spent not gain or loss over time.
- Stopped moving since the last
reset. Waypoint at Dest. The last point on
a route to your
Trip Time - Total A running tally of destination.
distance traveled since
the last reset. Waypoint at Next The next point on your
route.

26 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual


System Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
System.
GPSsets the GPS to Normal,
WAAS/EGNOS (Wide Area
Augmentation System/European
Geostationary Navigation Overlay
Service), or Demo Mode (GPS off).
For information about WAAS, go to
www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/waas
.html.
Languagesets the text language
on the device.
note: Changing the text language
does not change the language of
user-entered data or map data, such
as street names.
Battery Typeallows you to select
the type of battery you are using.
Interfacesets the format of the
serial interface:
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 27
Customizing Your Device
Garmin SerialGarmin
proprietary format used to
provide PVT protocol data.
NMEA In/Outprovides
standard NMEA 0183 output
and input.
Text Outprovides simple
ASCII text output of location
and velocity information.
RTCM Radio Technical
Commission for Maritime
Servicesallows the device
to accept DGPS Differential
Global Positioning System
information from a device
supplying RTCM data in an
SC-104 format.
Customizing Your Device
Display Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
Display.
Backlight Timeoutsee page 38.
Battery Savesee page 37.
Colorssets the colors used on the
device screens.
Main, Setup, Find Styleallows
you to select how the main menu,
setup menu, and search menu
appear.
Screen Captureallows you to
take screen captures on the device.
Setting Up Tones
Your Garmin device allows you to
customize the key tones, message
beeps, or turn off tones.
From the main menu, select Setup
> Tones.
28 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
Marine Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
Marine.
Marine Chart Modeallows you
to select a nautical chart or a fishing
chart:
Nauticaldisplays various map
features in different colors so
that the marine POIs are more
readable. The nautical chart
reflects the drawing scheme of
paper charts.
Fishing(requires marine
maps) displays a detailed view
of bottom contours and depth
soundings. Simplifies map
presentation for optimal use
while fishing.

Spot Soundingsallows you to
turn spot soundings on and set
dangerous depths.
Light Sectorsdisplays the sector
in which a navigational light is
visible. You can select On to show
light sectors at all times, or you can
select Auto to allow the chartplotter
to automatically filter out light
sectors depending on the zoom
level.
Symbol Setallows you to show
NOAA or IALA symbols on the
map.
Marine Alarm Setupsets the
anchor drag alarm, off course
alarm, deep water alarm, and
shallow water alarm.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 29
Customizing Your Device
Setting up Marine Alarms
Setting the Anchor Drag Alarm
You can set an alarm to sound when
you exceed a specified drift distance
while anchored.
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Marine Settings.
2. Select Anchor Drag Alarm > On.
3. Enter a distance.
4. Select Done.
Setting the Off Course Alarm
You can set an alarm to sound when
you are off course by a specified
distance.
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Marine Settings.
2. Select Off Course Alarm > On.
3. Enter a distance.
4. Select Done.
Customizing Your Device
Setting the Deep Water or 1. From the main menu, select Setup
Shallow Water Alarm > Reset.
1. From the main menu, select Setup 2. Select an item to reset.
> Marine > Marine Alarm Setup.
2. Select Shallow Water > On to set Changing the Page
an alarm to sound when the depth is Sequence
less than the specified value.
3. Enter the depth that triggers the
shallow water alarm.
4. Select Done.
5. Select Deep Water > On to set an
alarm to sound when the depth is
greater than the specified value.
6. Enter the depth that triggers the
deep water alarm.
1. From the main menu, select Setup
7. Select Done.
> Page Sequence.
Resetting Data 2. Select a page.
You can reset trip data, delete all 3. Select Move.
waypoints, clear the current track, or 4. Move the page up or down the list.
restore default values. 5. Press Enter.

30 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Customizing Your Device
Adding a Page 4. Repeat steps 23 for each setting
1. From the main menu, select Setup you want to customize.
> Page Sequence.
2. Select Add Page. Time Settings
3. Select a page to add. From the main menu, select Setup >
Time.
Removing a Page
1. From the main menu, select Setup Time Formatallows you to
> Page Sequence. select a 12-hour or a 24-hour
display time.
2. Select a page.
Time Zoneallows you to select
3. Select Remove. the time zone for the device. You
4. Press Enter. can select Automatic to set the
time zone automatically based on
Customizing the Unit your GPS position.
Settings
You can customize units of measure for Position Format Settings
distance and speed, elevation, depth, Note: Do not change the position
temperature, and pressure. format or the map datum coordinate
system unless you are using a map or
1. From the main menu, select Setup chart that specifies a different position
> Units. format.
2. Select a setting.
From the main menu, select Setup >
3. Select a unit for the setting. Position Format.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 31
Customizing Your Device
Position Formatsets the position
format in which a given location
reading appears.
Map Datumsets the coordinate
system on which the map is
structured.
Map Spheroidshows the
coordinate system the device is
using. The default coordinate
system is WGS 84.
Altimeter Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
Altimeter.
Auto Calibrationthe altimeter
to self-calibrates each time you turn
the device on.
Barometer Mode
Variable Elevationthe
barometer functions while you
are moving.
Fixed Elevationthe
32 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
barometer functions while you
are stationary.
Pressure Trending
Save When Power On
records pressure data only when
the device is turned on. This
can be useful when you are
watching for pressure fronts.
Save Alwaysrecords pressure
data every 15 minutes, even
when the device is turned off.
Plot Type
Elevation/Timerecords
elevation changes over a period
of time.
Elevation/Distancerecords
elevation changes over a
distance.
Barometric Pressurerecords
barometric pressure over a
period of time.

Ambient Pressurerecords
ambient pressure changes over a
period of time.
Geocache Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
Geocaches.
Geocache Listallows you to
show the geocache list by names
or codes.
Found Geocachesallows you
to enter the number of geocaches
found.
Routing Settings
From the main menu, select Setup >
Routing.
Guidance Methodallows you
to select a guidance method for
calculating your route.
Off Roadcalculates point-to-
point routes.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 33
Customizing Your Device
On Road For Timecalculates
on-road routes that require
minimal time to drive.
On Road For Distance
calculates on-road routes that
are shorter in distance.
Calculates Routes forallows you
to select a transportation method in
order to optimize your route.
Lock On Roadlocks the current
location marker on the nearest road,
compensating for variances in map
position accuracy (requires routable
maps).
Off Road Transitions
Autoautomatically routes you
to the next point.
Manualallows you to select
the next point on the route by
using the point on the active
route page.
Customizing Your Device
Distanceroutes you to the
next point on the route when
you are within a specified
distance of your current point.
Avoidance Setupallows you to
select the road type you want to
avoid.
Fitness
For more information on optional
fitness accessories, see page 39.
Profiles
Profiles are a collection of settings that
allow you to optimize your device from
one type of use to another, such as
moving from marine use to recreational
use.
You can select Marine, Recreational,
or save a custom profile for your
device.
To change profiles, see page 20.
34 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
Saving a Custom Profile
You can customize your settings for
a particular activity or trip. After you
have made all the changes, you must
save them as a custom profile.
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Profiles.
2. Select Create New Profile > OK.
Editing a Profile Name
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Profiles.
2. Select a profile.
3. Select Edit Name.
4. Enter the new name.
5. Select Done.
Deleting a Profile
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> Profiles.
2. Select a profile.
3. Select Delete.

Appendix
Registering Your Device
Help us better support you by
completing our online registration
today.
Go to http://my.garmin.com.
Keep the original sales receipt, or a
photocopy, in a safe place.
Updating the Software
You must connect the device to your
computer to update the software
(page 40).
1. Go to www.garmin.com
/products/webupdater.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
note: This does not erase any of your
data or settings.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 35
Appendix
Viewing Important Device
Information
You can view the unit ID, software
version, and license agreement.
From the main menu, select Setup
> About.
Contacting Garmin
Product Support
You can contact Garmin Product
Support if you have any questions
about this product.
In the USA, go to www.garmin
.com/support, or contact Garmin
USA by phone at (913) 397.8200 or
(800) 800.1020.
In the UK, contact Garmin (Europe)
Ltd. by phone at 0808 2380000.
Appendix
In Europe, go to www.garmin.com Resolution 160 240 pixels,
/support and click Contact (W H) backlit 65K color TFT
Support for in-country support display
information, or contact Garmin Water Fully gasketed,
(Europe) Ltd. by phone at +44 (0) resistance floatable, high impact
870.8501241. plastic alloy, waterproof
to IEC 529-IPX-7
Using the Backlight Data storage Approximately 1.7 GB
No memory battery is
The backlight is activated any time you required.
press a button. Alerts and messages The GPSMAP 78S and
also activate the backlight. 78Sc have a microSD
card slot for additional
NOTE: To change the backlight data storage.
settings, see page 38.
Computer USB and serial
Press to turn on the backlight. interface
Battery type Two AA batteries
Specifications (alkaline, NiMH, or
lithium)
Physical size 2.6 6.0 1.2 in. See page 38.
(W H D) (6.6 15.2 3.0 cm)
Battery life Up to 20 hours, typical
Weight 7.7 oz. (218.3 g) with usage
batteries
Operating From 5F to 158F
Display 2.6 in. (66 mm) temperature (from -15 to 70C)
(diagonal) range See page 38.

36 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Appendix

Radio 2.4 GHz/ANT+ wireless Compass Accuracy: 2 degrees

frequency/ communications ( 5 degrees in extreme
protocol protocol Northern and Southern
latitudes)
GPS accuracy < 33 ft. (10 m) 95%
*Resolution: 1 degree
typical use
*Subject to proper user
GPS is subject to
calibration.
accuracy degradation
to 100 m 2DRMS under
the U.S. DoD imposed Maximizing Battery Life
Selective Availability
(SA) Program when
Using the Battery Save Option
activated. Use the battery save option to save
battery power and prolong battery life.
DGPS From 10 to 16 ft. (from
3 to 5 m) 95% typical From the main menu, select Setup
(WAAS accuracy in
North America)
> Display > Battery Save > On.
Altimeter Accuracy: 10 ft. Decreasing the Backlight
( 3 m)* Extensive use of screen backlighting
Resolution: 1 ft. (.3 m) can significantly reduce battery life.
Range: from -2,000 ft.
to 30,000 ft.
You can adjust the backlight brightness
(from -610 to 9144 m) and decrease the backlight timeout to
*Subject to proper user maximize battery power.
calibration.
1. Quickly press to open the
backlight status page.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 37

Appendix
2. Use the Rocker to adjust the
brightness.
Adjusting the Backlight
Timeout
From the main menu, select Setup
> Display > Backlight Timeout.
About the Batteries
warning
See the Important Safety and Product
Information guide in the product
box for product warnings and other
important information.
The temperature rating for the device
may exceed the usable range of some
batteries. Alkaline batteries can rupture
at high temperatures. Alkaline batteries
lose a significant amount of their
capacity as temperature decreases. Use
lithium batteries when operating the
device in below-freezing conditions.
38 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
Selecting the Battery Type
1. From the main menu, select Setup
> System > Battery Type.
2. Select Alkaline, Lithium, or
Rechargeable NiMH.
Long-Term Storage
When you do not plan to use the
device for several months, remove the
batteries. Stored data is not lost when
batteries are removed.
Buying Optional
Accessories
Go to http://buy.garmin.com,
or contact your Garmin dealer
for information about optional
accessories, preloaded map data
cards, fitness accessories, and
replacement parts.

Using Optional Fitness
Accessories
NOTE: The Fitness option is available
only with the GPSMAP 78S and
GPSMAP 78Sc.
Before you can use the fitness
accessory with your device, you must
install the accessory according to the
instructions that are included with the
accessory.
You can use optional fitness accessories
including a heart rate monitor or a
cadence sensor with your device.
These accessories use ANT+ wireless
technology to send data to the device.
1. Bring the device within range (3 m)
of the ANT+ accessory.
2. From the main menu, select Setup
> Fitness.
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 39
Appendix
3. Select an option:
Select Heart Rate Monitor >
On.
Select Bike Cadence Sensor
> On.
You can view heart rate and cadence
data by customizing your data fields
(page 23).
Tips for Pairing ANT+
Accessories with Your Garmin
Device
Verify that the ANT+ accessory
is compatible with your Garmin
device.
Before you pair the ANT+
accessory with your Garmin device,
move 10 m away from other ANT+
accessories.
Bring the Garmin device within
range (3 m) of the ANT+ accessory.
After you pair the first time, your
Garmin device automatically
Appendix
recognizes the ANT+ accessory
each time it is activated. This
process occurs automatically when
you turn on the Garmin device and
only takes a few seconds when
the accessories are activated and
functioning correctly.
When paired, your Garmin device
only receives data from your
accessory, and you can go near
other accessories.
Data Management
note: The device is not compatible
with Windows 95, 98, Me, or NT. It is
also not compatible with Mac OS 10.3
and earlier.
File Types
The device supports the following file
types:
Files from BaseCamp or
HomePort. Go to www.garmin.
com.
40 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual
GPI custom POI files from the
Garmin POI Loader.
Installing a microSD Card
You can purchase microSD memory
cards from an electronics supplier, or
purchase preloaded detailed map data
cards from your Garmin dealer. In
addition to map and data storage, the
memory cards can be used to store files
such as images, cartridges, geocaches,
routes, waypoints, and custom POIs.
1. Slide the latch on the back of the
device, and remove the battery
cover and the batteries.
2. Slide down and pull out the metal
cover.
3. Align the metal contacts, and place
the card in the slot.
 Appendix
Removing a microSD Card
1. Slide down and pull out the metal
cover.
2. Remove the card from the slot.
3. Push in and slide up the metal
cover.
microSD card 4. Replace the batteries and the
slot battery cover.
Connecting the USB Cable
notice
4. Push in and slide up the metal To prevent corrosion, thoroughly
cover. dry the mini-USB port, the weather
5. Replace the batteries and the cap, and the surrounding area before
battery cover. charging or connecting to a computer.
1. Connect the USB cable to a USB
port on your computer.
2. Pull up the weather cap from the
mini-USB port.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 41

Appendix
Mini-USB Serial port Transferring Files to Your
port under under Computer
weather cap weather cap After you have connected the device
to your computer, you can copy and
paste files from your computer into the
device drives/volumes.
1. Browse your computer for the file.
microSD 2. Select the file.
card slot
(inside battery 3. Select Edit > Copy.
compartment) 4. Open the Garmin or memory card
drive/volume.
5. Select Edit > Paste.
3. Plug the small end of the USB
cable into the mini-USB port.
Your device and micro SD card
(optional) appear as removable
drives in My Computer on
Windows computers and as
mounted volumes on Mac
computers.

42 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Appendix
Deleting Files Disconnecting the USB Cable
1. Complete an action:
NOTICE
Your device memory contains For Windows computers, click
important system files and folders that the eject icon in your
should not be deleted. system tray.
For Mac computers, drag the
Before you can delete files, you must volume icon to the Trash .
connect the device to your computer
(page 40). 2. Disconnect the device from your
computer.
1. Open the Garmin drive or
volume. Attaching the Wrist Strap
2. If necessary, open a folder or 1. Place
volume. the
3. Select the files. loop of
4. Press the Delete key on your the wrist
keyboard. strap through
the slot opening
at the bottom of the
device.
2. Route the strap through the loop
and pull it tight.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 43

Appendix

Caring for the Device

NOTICE
Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents
that can damage plastic components.

Cleaning the Device

1. Use a cloth dampened with a mild
detergent solution.
2. Wipe it dry.
Cleaning the Screen
1. Use a soft, clean, lint-free cloth.
2. If necessary, use water, isopropyl
alcohol, or eyeglass lens cleaner.
3. Apply the liquid to the cloth, and
gently wipe the screen with the
cloth.

44 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Appendix

Troubleshooting
Problem Solution
The screen or buttons do 1. Remove the batteries.
not respond. How do I 2. Reinstall the batteries.
reset the device? Note: This does not erase any of your data or settings.
I want to reset all the From the main menu, select Setup > Reset > Restore Defaults.
customized settings
back to the factory
defaults.
My device does not 1. Take your device out of parking garages and away from tall
acquire satellite signals. buildings and trees.
2. Turn on the device.
3. Remain stationary for several minutes.
The batteries do not last Decrease the backlight settings (page 37).
long.
How do I know my On the device, a screen appears showing the Garmin logo and
device is in USB mass the USB symbol. On your computer, you should see a new
storage mode? removable disk drive in My Computer on Windows computers
and a mounted volume on Mac computers.
My device is connected You may have loaded a corrupted file.
to the computer, but it 1. Disconnect the device from your computer.
will not go into mass 2. Turn off the device.
storage mode. 3. Press and hold the Rocker while you connect the device to
your computer.
Continue pressing the Rocker for 10 seconds or until the
device goes into mass storage mode.

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 45

Appendix

Problem Solution
I cannot see any new If you have several network drives mapped on your computer,
removable drives in my Windows may have trouble assigning drive letters to your
list of drives. Garmin drives. See the Help file for your operating system to
learn how to assign drive letters.
I need replacement parts Go to http://buy.garmin.com, or contact your Garmin dealer.
or accessories.
I want to buy an external Go to http://buy.garmin.com, or contact your Garmin dealer.
GPS antenna.

46 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Index

Index about 38
information 3
wirelessly 19
creating
installing 3 routes 7
A
maximizing life 37 waypoints 6
accessories 38, 46
selecting the type 38 customizing
fitness 39
storage 38 data fields 12
microSD card 39
warnings 38 device settings 2734
acquiring satellite
beeps 28 profiles 34
signals 45
buttons 4
active route 8 D
alarms C dashboard
marine 29 calculator 21 change 18
proximity 20 calendar 21 data fields 12
time 22 calibrating options 23
altimeter altimeter 16 data storage 36
calibrating 16 compass 16 deleting
plot type 32 caring for the device 44 files 43
settings 32 long-term storage 38 profiles 34
ANT+ accessories 39 compass routes 8
area calculation 20 calibrating 14 tracks 11
AutoLocate 21 navigating 14 waypoints 6
setup options 15 display
B
connecting backlight 36
backlight 4, 36, 37
USB cable 41 backlight timeout 28
BaseCamp 40
wireless accessories 39 screen capture 28
batteries 23, 27, 36

GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 47

Index
settings 28 downloading 19 measuring distance 13
display settings navigating 19 setup options 13
backlight 37 settings 32 showing tracks 11
downloading GPS signals 4, 21, 23, 24, viewing routes 8
software 35 37, 45 map datum coordinate
system settings 27 system 31
E
turning off GPS 21 marine settings 2829
editing
MARK button 5
profiles 34 H
MCX connector 2
routes 7 HomePort 40
measuring
waypoints 6 hunting and fishing
area 20
elevation plot 11, 16 times 22
distance 13
barometric altimeter 16
L MENU button 5, 12, 17, 23
reset 17
language 3, 27 microSD card 36, 3941
setup 16
MOB button 4
ENTER button 5 M moonphase 21
external antenna 2 main menu
settings 19 N
F
man overboard 4 navigating
FIND button 4, 6, 8, 9, 11
map 12 compass 14
fitness options 39
changing routes 8
G orientation 12 to geocaches 19
Garmin Product datum 32 to waypoints 6
Support 35 detail 13 tracks 11
geocaches 19, 33 information 14

48 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 Index
P waypoints 30 software
PAGE button 5 restoring default updating 35
pages settings 12 version 35
adding a page 31 Rocker 5 specifications 36
removing 31 routes stopwatch 22
sequence 30 active route 8 sun and moon times 21
position format 31 avoidance 34 system settings 27
power button 3, 4, 36, 37 creating 7
T
profiles 20 deleting 8
time
change 20 editing 7
alarms 22
creating 34 editing name 7
data fields 25
setting 20 guidance method 33
settings 31
proximity alarms 20 navigating 8
stopwatch 22
settings 33
Q sunrise and sunset 21,
QUIT button 5 S 25
satellite signals 4, 21, 23, zone 31
R 24, 37, 45 times
recording AutoLocate 21 hunting and fishing 22
tracks 10 system settings 27 tones 28
registering your device 35 turning off GPS 21 tracks
reset saving about 10
current track 30 tracks 11 clearing current 11
data 30 search menu 4, 6 deleting 11
defaults 30 Sight N Go 15 navigating 11
trip data 30
GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual 49
Index
recording 10 Z
saving 11 zooming 5, 13
viewing 10 zoom ranges 17
transferring files 42
using USB 42
wirelessly 19
trip computer 18
troubleshooting 45
U
unit ID 35
updating
software 35
USB cable 45
connecting 41
disconnecting 43
W
waypoints
averaging 22
creating 6
deleting 6
editting 6
navigating to 6
wrist strap 43

50 GPSMAP 78 Series Owners Manual

 For the latest free software updates (excluding map data) throughout the life of
your Garmin products, visit the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com.

2010 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

Garmin International, Inc.

1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA

Garmin (Europe) Ltd.

Liberty House, Hounsdown Business Park, Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9LR UK

Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Sijhih, Taipei County, Taiwan

October 2010 Part Number 190-01165-00 Rev. D Printed in Taiwan